We recently wrapped up our 94th Annual Convention & Industry Expo in St. Louis. Attendees from all parts of the country joined us in St. Louis to be a part of the weeklong event.

Candy makers and suppliers connected on the Expo show floor, listened to a wide variety of educational presentations and took tour buses to see firsthand what candy makers in St. Louis are up to. During the week, I overheard conversations about new product launches, special events and even new packaging that attendees were testing.

Angie Burlison Executive Director, Retail Confectioners International

One RCI member shared with me that coming away from the convention with one really great idea would make the investment worth it.

The opportunity to learn from fellow candy makers is always one of my favorite parts of RCI’s events. Candy Clinic is an educational session where candy makers present new ideas, innovative products or troubleshooting techniques they have worked on in their own stores.

Great ideas are always shared during this time and this year was no exception. From camo corn to hop stout salt caramels, from chocolate-covered wine bottles to creative ways to use social media, summer day camps and many more, each idea was shared along with many handouts and samples for attendees to take home.

As someone who is new to the industry, I am continually amazed at the uniqueness of each of our members. Hearing each presentation is merely a snapshot into their piece of the world and learning what has been successful for their businesses.

Most importantly, Candy Clinic is for all member types. Each year there are first-time attendees and those who have attended more than 50 RCI events who still look forward to the opportunity to learn from each other and share their best new ideas.

It is a reminder that regardless of the amount of time you have been in any industry, there are always new things to learn from your peers. 

So what is one really great idea worth to you?  As always our most up-to-date event information is available on our website: retailconfectioners.org/events. We hope you will consider making the investment to join us in the upcoming year and find your next great idea.

Upcoming RCI Events & Education Courses:

• Chocolate Boot Camp
     Feb. 23-26, 2015
     Joplin, Mo.
• Spring Mid-Atlantic Chocolate Tour 
     April 21-25, 2015
• 95th Annual Convention & Industry Expo 
     June 22-26, 2015
     New York City

For more information about upcoming RCI events, visit www.retailconfectioners.org/events.